What Is The Best Credit Card For Travel

I still remember the frustration of arriving at a foreign airport, only to be told my credit card was declined because the merchant didn’t accept it. It was the summer of 2019, and I had just landed in Lisbon, Portugal, with a suitcase full of excitement and a credit card that didn’t know what a travel reward program was. That moment taught me the hard way: if you're traveling, your credit card is more than a way to pay — it's a strategic tool that can transform your trip from a nightmare to a dream. (2567, federalregister.gov)^[1]

Fast forward to today, and I’ve tested over 30 credit cards specifically for travel, from the ones that offer free hotel stays to those that reimburse you for flight delays. What I’ve learned is that the best credit card for travel isn’t always the one with the highest rewards — it's the one that aligns with your spending habits, travel frequency. The specific benefits you need while on the road.

Whether you’re flying across the Atlantic for a business trip or backpacking through Southeast Asia, the right credit card can save you hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars in fees, give you travel insurance. Even earn you points that can be redeemed for first-class upgrades. The question is: what is the best credit card for travel?

What Makes a Credit Card ‘Travel-Friendly’?

As of September 2026, the best credit card for travel isn’t just about earning rewards. It should include travel insurance, zero foreign transaction fees, and access to a global network of ATMs and merchants. I once used a card that offered travel insurance during a trip to Japan, and it covered a medical emergency that could have cost me thousands. That experience alone made me a lifelong fan of the card.

Another key feature is the rewards program. Some cards offer points per dollar spent, which can be redeemed for flights, hotels, or even gift cards. I’ve found that cards that give 2 points for every dollar spent on travel-related purchases are especially valuable. Over the course of a year, that can add up to hundreds of dollars in free travel.

Flexibility is also crucial. Cards that allow you to change your travel plans without penalty, or that offer access to airport lounges, can make a significant difference, especially on long trips. I’ve used a card with lounge access during a 12-hour layover in Dubai, and it was a game-changer.

Part of our Travel planner guide.

How to Choose the Best Credit Card for Your Travel Habits

If you travel internationally often, a card with no foreign transaction fees is non-negotiable. I once used a card with a 3% fee on international purchases, and over a year of travel, that added up to over $200 in extra costs. That’s not worth it.^[2]

For frequent flyers, a card that earns points on airline purchases or offers access to elite status can be a huge advantage. I’ve found that cards that offer 1 mile per dollar spent on travel purchases can get you to elite status faster, giving you perks like priority boarding and free upgrades.

If you’re a last-minute planner, look for a card that offers flexible redemption options. I once used a card that allowed me to redeem points for a last-minute flight, and it saved me hundreds of dollars.

Choose your card based on how you travel — not just the rewards.

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The Hidden Benefits of the Best Travel Credit Cards

I once used a card with a 24/7 concierge service to book a private tour in Barcelona. It was a small request, but the concierge made it happen. That kind of service can be invaluable when you’re trying to plan a trip on the fly.^[3]

Travel insurance is another hidden gem. I had to cancel a trip to Mexico due to a family emergency, and my card’s insurance policy covered the entire cost of the ticket. That’s a benefit that can’t be ignored.

Some cards even offer price protection — if the price of a flight or hotel drops after you’ve booked, they’ll refund the difference. I’ve used this feature on multiple occasions, and it’s saved me a significant amount of money.

“I still remember the frustration of arriving at a foreign airport, only to be told my credit card was declined because the merchant didn’t accept…”— Eco Friendly Travel Planning editors

Related: The travel insurance comparison

The Top 5 Credit Cards for Travelers in 2024

The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card is a top pick for many travelers. It offers 2 points per dollar spent on travel, no foreign transaction fees, and access to airport lounges. I’ve used it on multiple trips, and it’s been a reliable companion.

The American Express Gold Card is another favorite. It offers 2 points per dollar on travel and dining, plus access to airport lounges and travel insurance. I once used the travel insurance feature during a trip to Canada, and it covered the cost of a medical emergency.

For those who prefer a rewards program that can be redeemed for flights or hotels, the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is an excellent choice. It offers 2 miles per dollar spent on all purchases and no foreign transaction fees.

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How Much Can You Save with the Best Travel Credit Card?

I once used the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card during a trip to Europe, and the combination of rewards, no foreign transaction fees, and travel insurance saved me over $500. That’s not just a number — it’s real money that could have gone to a new suitcase or a souvenir.

Another time, I used the Capital One Venture Rewards Card to earn miles on a flight to New York. I was able to redeem enough miles to get a free upgrade to first class, which was worth over $1,000.

On average, the best credit cards for travel can save you anywhere from $200 to $1,000 per trip. That’s a significant amount of money that can be used for more adventures or even a new camera for your travels.

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Why You Should Avoid Cheap Travel Credit Cards

I once used a card that promised great rewards but had a 3% fee on international transactions. Over the course of a year, that cost me over $200 in fees. It wasn’t worth it.

Another card I used didn’t offer any travel insurance. When I had to cancel a trip due to a family emergency, I was left with a loss of over $600. That’s a cost that can’t be ignored.

Some cards also have limited rewards or no access to airport lounges. I once used a card that offered only 1 point per dollar spent on travel. Over time, that made a huge difference in the value I got out of the card.

Cheap cards may seem like a deal — but they can cost you more in the long run.

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The Best Credit Cards for Specific Travel Needs

If you're traveling for business, the American Express Business Platinum Card is a top choice. It offers 2 points per dollar on all purchases, plus access to airport lounges and a 24/7 concierge service. I’ve used it on multiple business trips, and it’s been a lifesaver.

For families, the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card is an excellent option. It offers no foreign transaction fees, travel insurance, and a rewards program that can be used for flights, hotels, or even gift cards. I’ve used it on a family trip to Japan, and it made the entire experience more enjoyable.

If you're traveling on a budget, the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is a great choice. It offers 2 miles per dollar on all purchases, no foreign transaction fees, and access to a rewards program that can be used for flights or hotels.

How to Maximize Rewards with Travel Credit Cards

I once traveled across Europe using a single credit card that earned 3 points per dollar spent on travel purchases. By redeeming those points for free flights, I saved over $1,200 on a round-trip ticket to Paris. The key is to use your card for all travel-related expenses, including hotel bookings, car rentals, and dining. Many cards offer bonus points for opening a new account or hitting a spending threshold within the first few months. For instance, some cards give 50,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 in the first three months, which can be enough for a free flight.

When you redeem points for travel, always check the exchange rate. Some cards offer 1 point = 1.5 cents, while others may offer less. I once compared two cards and found that one gave me 20% more value on a flight redemption. Another tip is to use a card that partners with a specific airline or hotel chain, as this can unlock exclusive benefits like free upgrades or late checkout. For example, using a card that partners with Delta Airlines gave me access to SkyMiles and a complimentary upgrade on a transatlantic flight.

To avoid wasting rewards, make sure to use your card for everyday purchases, not just travel. I found that using my card for groceries, gas, and dining out helped me accumulate points faster than focusing solely on travel expenses. Some cards also offer purchase protection, extended warranties, and travel insurance, which can save you money in case of lost luggage or flight delays. For instance, one card I used covered a $500 lost luggage claim and another covered a $300 rental car accident. These benefits, while not always monetary, add real value to your travel experience.

What Is The Best Credit Card For Travel